2019 Ford Ranger: Preview, Pricing, Release Date

Model Preview

The Ford Ranger will return for the 2019 model year. Last sold back in 2011, the long-running pickup was originally discontinued due to sagging sales. However, a resurgence in demand for small pickups has reportedly caused Ford to rethink its strategy of relying almost entirely on the F-150 and its wide array of configurations to suit the needs of buyers.

The reborn Ranger is a midsize pickup that resembles the version offered overseas, with a rugged look that doesn't merely mimic the larger F-150. Ford says the vehicle's powertrain and chassis have been adapted to suit North American buyers. Three trims will be offered: XL, XLT and Lariat, in a choice of either SuperCab or SuperCrew styles.

Capability will be a strong selling point, with the optional FX4 Off-Road Package boasting increased ground clearance, a skid plate, more aggressive tires and a terrain management system adapted from the F-150 Raptor. A new mode called Trail Control will act like a form of cruise control for low-speed maneuvering over rough terrain.

Inside the cabin, the Ranger will come with an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system available with SYNC 3 and connectivity with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as Amazon Alexa. Other interior details have not yet been announced in full.

Under the hood, the Ranger will feature a 2.3-liter EcoBoost 4-cylinder featuring a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct injection. The engine will be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Power and torque figures have not yet been revealed.

Overseas, the Ranger is offered with a choice of diesel engines, a 2.2-liter 4-cylinder rated at 158 hp with 284 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.2-liter 5-cylinder making 197 hp with 346 lb-ft. There are no indications that U.S. buyers will get similar options, although the Chevy Colorado and GMC Canyon already offer this capability.

Safety will be an area in which the Ranger sees big advancements over previous iterations. For 2019, Ford will offer the latest driver assistance features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping system and adaptive cruise control. There will also be a blind spot warning system that works even when hauling a trailer.

Check back for updates.

Pricing & Release Date

The 2019 Ford Ranger will begin production in late 2018. At this point, it's unclear if that will result in a release date before the end of this year or in early 2019.

Official pricing is still a long way off. For reference, the F-150 currently starts at $28,675 including destination for an entry-level XL 4x2 Regular Cab.

The Chevy Colorado, a potential direct rival, starts around $25,000 to $27,000 (excluding the entry-level version that's advertised from $20,995 but is rarely stocked).

Ford will likely face challenges in making the Ranger affordable in relation to the F-150. Given that rebates often make the F-150 an attractive prospect in a segment that often boasts deals worth up to $10,000, it will be interesting to see how the automaker chooses to position the Ranger.